BYD Dynasty electric prototype revealed in Shanghai

BYD's electrification strategy widens with the Dynasty concept; a large SUV with an electric powertrain, penned by former Audi designer Wolfgang Egger

The BYD Dynasty; an electric vehicle from the Chinese brand, has been revealed in prototype form at an event ahead of the Shanghai motor show.

Launched alongside the Song EV300 and Song DM electric and plug-in hybrid models, the Dynasty is another prong of the company's aim at reducing global warming; a pledge it made at last year's C40 climate change conference.

"The trend to go electric is already irreversible, but where is the next growth area? There's no doubt that it will be in consumer vehicles, most of them plug-in hybrid models," said Wang Chuanfu, BYD president.

The Dynasty is the brainchild of new design boss of BYD Wolfgang Egger, formerly of Audi fame, and takes the form of a large SUV with a sloping roofline, large alloy wheels and, unusually for an EV, dominant front grille.

The BYD Dynasty; an electric vehicle from the Chinese brand, has been revealed in prototype form at an event ahead of the Shanghai motor show.

Launched alongside the Song EV300 and Song DM electric and plug-in hybrid models, the Dynasty is another prong of the company's aim at reducing global warming; a pledge it made at last year's C40 climate change conference.

"The trend to go electric is already irreversible, but where is the next growth area? There's no doubt that it will be in consumer vehicles, most of them plug-in hybrid models," said Wang Chuanfu, BYD president.

The Dynasty is the brainchild of new design boss of BYD Wolfgang Egger, formerly of Audi fame, and takes the form of a large SUV with a sloping roofline, large alloy wheels and, unusually for an EV, dominant front grille.

Egger said: "This concept vehicle will take BYD's consumer vehicles in an exciting new direction, with design cues like its dragon-inspired exterior drawing inspiration from China's rich cultural heritage."

The event primarily celebrated the company's best year of profit in 2016 - around £569,000,000 - while showcasing its new range of alternatively fuelled vehicles. A seven-seat version of the Song is also due to appear in Shanghai.